SINGAPORE — Due to congestion at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, the three Singapore C-130 planes bound for Nepal have been diverted to other airports instead, said Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen in an update on Facebook this evening (April 27).

“Ground commanders tell me that conditions at Kathmandu can be challenging. The airport is about 1,300m above sea level and weather conditions can change rapidly. Frustrating to all concerned, when so much help is needed,” said Dr Ng.

The three Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) planes carried personnel from the SAF, Singapore Civil Defence Force and the Singapore Police Force. Two departed on yesterday while a third left today. The planes were also meant to help bring Singaporeans back from Kathmandu. The Singaporeans waiting to leave Nepal include a Mount Everest expedition team member, Mr Seumas Yeo.

In addition to Singapore’s efforts, other countries have also sent or pledged assistance, said Dr Ng.

“There is an international commitment to help, and as devastating as the earthquake was, we have to help our Nepalese friends get back on their feet as quickly as possible. Essential items like clean water, food, shelter and medical services will be in great demand in the short term,” he said.

The Defence Minister said the Changi Regional HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) Coordination Centre’s advance team will work with other agencies and provide an assessment of what else is needed when they get on ground.